Often men are quick to assume that they would know if they had an STD (sexually transmitted disease); unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Many STDs cause symptoms while others don’t. In most cases, the symptoms are easily mistaken for other conditions including common yeast infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Knowing the signs and symptoms of common STDs and understanding the risks associated with sexual activity will help you limit your exposure and help you understand treatment if an infection occurs. You can make an appointment to get tested for STDs at EZCare Clinic and see a doctor for any signs or symptoms you may be experiencing.

What is penile discharge?

Penile discharge is a condition in which fluid collects in the urethra as a result of an infection. The urethra is the tube through which urine and semen pass from the body. This material can be hardly noticeable or impossible to ignore. It can appear watery and transparent or opaque and cloudy containing pus and occasionally even blood. The odor may be unpleasant or not noticeable at all. It is easy to understand why this condition is so confusing for the average person considering the difference in the appearance of the discharge. Penile discharge is one of many signs of a more significant problem and should always be evaluated by a physician.

Causes of penile discharge

Several conditions can cause penile discharge. Urinary Tract or yeast infections are often the underlying factor and can be accompanied by pain or a burning sensation during urination as well as the need for frequent urination. These types of infection are generally easy to treat and with the proper medications, curable. Unfortunately, there are also several STDs that can result in this unwanted condition. The type of STD will determine treatment, but if caught early, almost all can be treated as well.

Urinary Tract Infections

Most urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) that is naturally present in our bodies. An infection occurs when the bacterium enters the urinary tract through the urethra. While men of all ages can get a UTI, it is more common among older men due to a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland called benign prostatic hyperplasia. This condition causes the prostate to wrap around the bladder where it connects to the urethra making it harder for urine to pass. Bacteria that is typically flushed out with the urine is retained inside the bladder allowing it to grow.

Other factors that increase your risk for UTIs in Men

Diabetes

Being uncircumcised

Fecal incontinence

Immobility

Dehydration or not drinking enough fluids

Engaging in anal intercourse which exposes the urethra to more bacteria

If you are diagnosed with a urinary tract infection, it is necessary to drink plenty of fluids to increase urination levels. Urination will help flush the bacteria from your system. Antibiotics should be prescribed as well. It is always a good practice to take all the medications that your doctor prescribes. Discontinuing an antibiotic early encourages the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Occasionally, people will recommend drinking cranberry juice to eliminate a UTI or to speed up the recovery. While there have been promising experiments with mice that suggested cranberry juice is helpful, this method is unproven.

Penile discharge is only one of the symptoms that can be present with a UTI. Others can include burning during urination, lower back pain and the frequent urge to go to the bathroom. If any of these symptoms are present, consultation with a physician is recommended.

Yeast Infections

Candida yeasts are commonly found on the penis even though approximately only 37% of men with the yeast develop an infection. Unlike vaginal yeast infections, infections in men are usually, but not always, the result of sexual activity. To put it bluntly, the man has had sex with someone who is suffering from a yeast infection. However, it is important to note that this type of infection is not considered an STD because men can get the infection without having sex as well. Antibiotics, Diabetes, immune-suppressing illness (especially HIV) and the use of corticosteroids can increase a man’s chances of getting a yeast infection. Men who have never been circumcised also have a higher risk than those who have had the procedure. Common symptoms of a yeast infection in men are redness, swelling, rash-like bumps that may contain pus, pain during urination or sex, discharge, unpleasant odor and burning or itching around the head of the penis that worsens after having sex.

Like yeast infections in women, penile yeast infections are easily treated with antifungal drugs. There are also several over-the-counter and prescription based topical medicines that are effective in treating yeast infections. If you believe you have a yeast infection, but over-the-counter medications are not sufficient, a doctor’s visit is necessary.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

If your penile discharge isn’t caused by a UTI or yeast infection, the cause may be one of a more personal nature. Symptoms of several sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) include penile discharge. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two of the most common STDs in men with an estimated one to four million new cases diagnosed each year. Both infections can cause serious health concerns especially when left untreated. Because penile discharge is not considered to be a typical occurrence, medical advice should be sought for this condition.

Unfortunately, not everyone experiences symptoms with an STD until the disease is in advanced stages. If you are sexually active, yearly screenings are recommended to ensure your health and to prevent the spread of infections. The only way to completely avoid an STD is to refrain from all types of sexual activity, vaginal, anal and oral. Condoms and dental dams or barriers are proven to be an appropriate means of prevention, though not as effective as abstinence, but only when used correctly. To further help limit exposure to STDs, refrain from having sex with multiple partners or with anyone who has open sores, lesions, a rash or who has been diagnosed with an STD.

Support and Testing

If you live in the San Francisco area and are experiencing any penile discharge, call EZCare Clinic today. Our medical team is knowledgeable in treating delicate situations such as this. Whether you are sexually active or not, EZCare clinic can accurately diagnose your condition and offer effective treatment and prevention methods. Penile discharge, like any other medical condition, is no reason for embarrassment. Our facility is standing by to provide expert, confidential care. Appointments are appreciated but not necessary. You can walk-in, or reach us at (415) 966-0848 from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, 7 days a week.

Unlike decades ago, the world we live in has become a complex global society where the movement of people is more fluid. The age of growing up and living in one area, never seeing or visiting other parts of the world or even within the United States has long passed for most of the population. Living among us, however, are individuals who face challenges that require special accommodations and considerations for them to live an independent life. The time when those who have physical or mental disabilities were expected to have someone with them always to perform activities that otherwise would have been off-limits for them has passed. Thankfully great strides have been made in services that encourage independent living among the disabled. One such service that arguably may be the best program that supports independence is the service animal industry.The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any dog that is specially trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disabilities. The action or tasks performed must be directly related to the individual’s disability. Typical examples of such service dogs would see eye dogs for the blind; dogs used to pull wheelchairs or even those that can warn or protect individuals from imminent seizures. While there are individuals who benefit from federal protections for service dogs, those who suffer severe emotional disabilities and require the use of an emotional support animal are not generally covered under the ADA’s guidelines except for two areas, travel and housing.

What is an emotional support pet?

An emotional support animal (ESA) provides companionship and emotional support for people diagnosed with a severe mental or emotional disability. An example of a disability that may benefit from an emotional support animal could be someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression. The need for an ESA is always documented by a letter from a mental health professional which legally guarantees their right to live and travel with the animal. These support animals are not always dogs or cats, though they are more common. Other species such as mice, birds, hedgehogs or other animals that are commonly domesticated can be used as well.

Traveling with an emotional support pet

The Department of Transportation (DOT) under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACCA) provides specific protections for individuals traveling with an emotional support animal by plane in the United States. Because of heightened safety concerns and the enclosed space in which air travel is done, the restrictions are considered tighter than other laws regarding ESAs. The ACCA allows disabled handlers the right to travel with their support animal in the cabin and free of charge, but there are certain conditions. Under the DOT’s rules, unusual animals are prohibited from the guidelines. It can include snakes, reptiles, rodents, and other animals. If you are intending upon traveling with your ESA, there are a few things you should be aware of. First, the DOT gives carriers the right to request additional documentation before agreeing to allow your animal to be transported in the cabin. Though the added documentation may vary from carrier to carrier, most common requirements are for an ESA letter certifying the traveler’s disability and the need for a specific support animal that is no older than one year old or veterinary records stating the health of the animal. Those individuals who rely on emotional support animals should also be aware that should you need to travel outside of the United States, foreign carriers that fly to and from the US are only required to accept dogs as an emotional support animal. Great care should always be taken when traveling abroad. Host countries do not usually have the same laws regarding these animals that we do, and you could find upon entering that your pet is not allowed. Consult an advisor at embassies and the State Department for additional information. If you intend to travel by other means of mass transit (bus, commuter rail, etc.), the DOT’s rules are not as supportive and not covered by the ADA. In these circumstances, local providers are allowed to either classify the animal as a service animal or as a pet. If support animals are treated as pets, they can accept them under the same pet policy or pricing policy as service animals or ban them entirely. Transient lodging is also exempt from being forced to accept ESAs as anything other than pets. When traveling, we recommend that you seek out places that are pet-friendly.

Living with an emotional support pet

Individuals suffering from severe mental or emotional issues that require an ESA are protected by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (DOT) under the umbrella of the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Rehab Act. They enforce the rules regarding emotional support animals as well as service dogs. While service dogs are required to be specially trained to perform a job, the FHA guidelines do not need any training for an emotional support animal including basic obedience. However, ESAs residing in a residential community are subject to specific regulations or requirements. This can include registrations, vaccinations, and prohibitions. Property owners or landlords have a right to request an ESA letter just like airlines to prove an individual’s legal rights under the ADA and HUD guidelines. Although pets may be denied under standard rental agreements or typically assessed fees or deposits, in the case of an ESA, no such demands can be made. However, if an emotional support animal causes damages, the tenant can be legally held responsible. More information here – Emotional Support Animal Letter for Housing

Employment laws concerning emotional support pets

Individuals that are disabled are covered under the Equal Employment Opportunity Act (EEOC). The Act prohibits employment discrimination by race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. Added as an amendment to Title VII, it expands the protection of Title VII to public and private employers with 15 or more employees, both public and private labor organizations with at least 15 members, and employment agencies. In addition to the EEOC, disabled Americans are also protected under the ADA. The ADA requires that employers make reasonable accommodations for employees and applicants who have disabilities regardless if the disability is seen or unseen. Changes to how a job is completed or a change in a policy that does not cause undue hardship on the employer that allows a disabled individual to perform the task effectively are considered a reasonable accommodation. While service dogs are automatically covered under these laws, support animals currently reside in a gray area. Some emotional disabilities such as severe stress or anxiety may be covered under employment laws, but others may not. Any employer that receives a request for the accommodation of an emotional support animal should treat the application just as they would for any other housing. It is always in the best interest of both the employer and employee to work together to build a supportive working environment as long as the accommodations requested would not cause undue hardship or create an environment that could be dangerous to the anyone including the disabled individual. Undue hardships that may prevent employers from accommodating a request could be a substantial financial cost, the size and number of employees or how the accommodation would affect the facility and the employer. Employers are allowed to expect that any support animal is free from bad odors, be housebroken or potty-trained and not pose a threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace. While it is a gray area in the laws, many employers are open to an honest and forthcoming discussion about an employee’s need for an emotional support animal. They may request the ESA letter to help them make an informed decision. However, as with all other provisions, there is limited information that employers may demand regarding protected medical information. It is advisable to address specific concerns with a qualified HR representative or other legal professionals if additional information is needed.

Public access laws for emotional support pets

The United States government does not recognize emotional support animals as service animals that perform a job for their handler. Because of this, ESAs do not have the protections in public access areas like service animals do. If the individual state also does not offer protections, access to public areas with emotional support animals can be limited. If your state has not defined additional protections, seek out support-friendly areas that may be close by. Many businesses and business owners are becoming more sympathetic to individuals who suffer from debilitating disorders and are making changes in their policies to accommodate them.

Emotional support pet letter from EZCare Clinic

All fifty states are covered under the American’s with Disabilities Act, Air Carrier Act, Fair Housing Act, and the Rehab Act. While many states leave the protections associated with emotional support animals to the federal government, some states have begun to expand or add to those protections to ensure a higher number of disabled individuals receive equal treatment. To ensure that your rights have not been violated or that as an employer, you are not discriminating against someone unintentionally, check out your individual state’s website for additional information. Understanding the disability laws in your area allows you to advocate for yourself and others effectively regarding housing for emotional support animals and traveling with your ESA. Our physicians here at EZCare Clinic would be glad to help you with all of your questions regarding emotional support pets, as well as aid you in getting a legitimate emotional support animal letter. We are here to help 7 days a week, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm PST, feel free to give us a call at (415) 966-0848 and make an appointment today online or in-person.

Vaginal discharge isn’t always something to cause concern. There are several reasons that an increased amount of discharge is occurring, while most of these are natural changes in the body, there are a few that are signs of an underlying condition. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms along with an increased amount of discharge, it may be time to consult your healthcare provider.

When is a vaginal discharge considered healthy?

Most women produce approximately one teaspoon of white or clear discharge a day. It can be thin, thick, slippery, or creamy and be either white or off-white. Very little or no odor is common. In the days following your menstrual period, you may experience a dark red or brown discharge as the uterus continues to expel blood.

Depending on where you are in your cycle, you may see an increase in the amount of discharge as you ovulate. Once the egg is released the amount lessens and becomes thicker and whiter. Other symptoms of ovulation include increased basal body temperature, one-sided abdominal pain, and spotting.

If the discharge you are experiencing is within these ranges, it is most likely normal and considered healthy. However, some factors will also determine the health of any discharge including age, sexual activity, medications or other underlying health conditions. STD testing and treatment in San Francisco.

Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalances in women can occur when there is an abnormal amount, too much or too little, of a hormone in the bloodstream. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands in the endocrine system and travel through the bloodstream to the tissues and organs telling the organs what to do and when. They are also crucial for regulating most major bodily processes making imbalances able to affect several functions. Even small imbalances can wreak havoc throughout the body. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by numerous underlying issues such as stress or other health conditions. If the inequality is with hormones dealing with the reproductive system, an increased amount of vaginal discharge may be seen. Consultation with a physician is warranted if the discharge does not resolve over a relatively short amount of time or if there are other symptoms associated as well.

Individuals that use tampons during their menstrual cycle or condoms for sexual activity may be surprised to learn that it isn’t uncommon to “lose” one. Typically, during the final days of your period, the flow is light making it easy for some women to forget the tampon. Women who are very busy or stressed may put in a new tampon before taking out the previous one, not realizing it until symptoms present. Coincidentally, during sexual intercourse, if the condom has not been used correctly or is the wrong size, it can fall off and become lost in the vagina.

Both scenarios can lead to excessive, foul-smelling discharge ranging in colors from yellow to green or pink to brown. Other symptoms may include fever, itching, pain during sex or urination, and rash or swelling around the vagina.

Often, women are not able to retrieve the offending object even if they realize what has happened. A trip to your doctor and occasionally antibiotics, if an infection has begun, may be warranted. Recovery from this type of issue is generally quick once the foreign object has been removed.

Yeast infections

Approximately 75% of women are affected by yeast infections at one time or another. Several conditions can cause them to occur such as antibiotics, a weak immune system, high blood sugar or tight synthetic clothing.

Antibiotics are useful in treating certain illnesses. Unfortunately, they can also disrupt the delicate balance in the vagina causing a yeast infection. Typically, this condition will result in a watery or cottage-cheese-like discharge along with itching, rash, pain or soreness and burning during sex or urination.

Other health conditions such as a weak immune system or high blood sugar should be addressed with your physician to help prevent yeast infections. It may sound like an obvious solution, but if the cause of infections are the type or fit of clothes you are wearing, minor changes to your wardrobe may be the only way to prevent future outbreaks.

Treatment for yeast infections includes either over-the-counter or prescription antifungal medications or topical ointments. While the condition is extremely uncomfortable, it typically reacts well to these types of treatment helping you to feel more like yourself in no time.

Allergic reactions

Allergic reactions are possible in or around the vagina just like other parts of the body. Typical offenders are cleansers, douches, sex toys, clothing, and even toilet paper. Itching, redness or pain during sex or urination can be seen along with an excess in vaginal discharge. Usually, once you have discontinued use of the product, symptoms will disappear as the vagina returns to normal. In some cases, medical treatment may be necessary.

Sexually transmitted infections (STI) in Women

STIs in women such as gonorrhea and chlamydia often have no initial symptoms; however, as it progresses, infected women may experience foul-smelling or thick vaginal discharge and possibly even bleeding between periods. If left untreated, STIs can lead to more severe infections of the reproductive organs like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and fertility.

Treatment for STIs varies depending on the diagnosis. Strong antibiotics are most often prescribed, and most infections respond positively if caught early. Regardless if you are experiencing symptoms of an STI or not, routine annual screenings or testing are highly recommended if you are sexually active. The sooner you begin treatment, if infected, the higher your chances are of a successful recovery. To prevent the spread of STIs always use proper protection and use precautions.

When to see a healthcare provider

Most often vaginal discharges are not a cause for concern unless there are other unusual symptoms as well. Patients should seek the advice of a medical professional if experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Pain

Itching

Rashes

Sores

Fever

Strange odor

Yellow, green or gray discharge

Abnormal bleeding between menstrual cycles.

EZCare STD Clinic is dedicated to working with each of our patients to determine the cause of any issues. If you are experiencing unusual symptoms, don’t wait, call today and schedule an appointment (415) 966-0848. Our caring staff will address all your healthcare needs 7 days a week, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm PST. With numerous specialties and clinics to choose from, your health and confidentiality is our top priority.